Masada National Park stands on an isolated rock plateau above the Dead Sea along Route 90, about 190 km south-east of Tel Aviv, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Israel. The most direct public transport is an Egged bus from Tel Aviv Central Bus Station toward Eilat or Ein Gedi, which takes about 2.5 hours and costs roughly 50-70 ILS each way; line numbers should be checked on egged.co.il or Moovit. Organised tours cost around 300-450 ILS and often combine Masada with the Dead Sea, and a rental car is the most flexible choice. No buses run on Shabbat.
The fortress was built by Herod the Great and was the last stronghold of Jewish rebels against Rome in the first century CE. Visitors can reach the summit either by the Snake Path, a steep climb of about 45-60 minutes from the eastern base, or by cable car. At the top they can walk through Herod's northern palace on the cliff edge, the storehouses, the bathhouse with its mosaic floors, the synagogue and the Byzantine church remains. Viewpoints take in the Dead Sea, the Judean Desert and the Roman siege ramp on the western side.
The usual day plan leaves Tel Aviv at about 4:00AM to start the Snake Path in time for sunrise, which also avoids desert heat. The summit tour takes about two hours, followed by the descent by cable car or on foot. Many visitors then continue to Ein Bokek for a Dead Sea float and a late lunch at one of the hotel restaurants, returning to Tel Aviv in the late afternoon. Food options at Masada itself are limited to a cafeteria at the base, so water and snacks are worth carrying.
The best period runs from October to April. In summer, temperatures often exceed 40 degrees Celsius, the Snake Path may be closed in the afternoon and hikers should climb at sunrise only. Park entry costs about 35-40 ILS for hiking only, and the cable car adds around 50 ILS round trip.
| Distance | 190 km south-east |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 2 hours 30 minutes by bus |
| Getting there | Egged bus from Tel Aviv Central Bus Station toward Eilat or Ein Gedi (check line numbers on egged.co.il or Moovit), about 2.5 hours and 50-70 ILS (approx $16-23) each way; no service on Shabbat |
| Difficulty | hard |
| Address | Masada National Park, Route 90, Dead Sea region, Israel |
How to get there
- Mode
- Egged bus
- Cost
- 50-70 ILS (approx $16-23)
- Frequency
- A few departures a day; none on Shabbat
- Mode
- Organised tour
- Cost
- About 300-450 ILS (approx $98-148)
- Frequency
- Daily departures, often combined with the Dead Sea
- Mode
- Rental car
- Cost
- 200-350 ILS (approx $66-115) per day plus fuel
- Frequency
- On demand
Location
Masada National Park, Route 90, Dead Sea region, Israel
31.3156, 35.3536 View on map
Highlights
- Snake Path climb at sunrise
- Herod's northern palace on the cliff edge
- Roman siege ramp and desert panorama
- Cable car alternative to the summit
- Bathhouse mosaics and Byzantine church remains
Tips for visiting
- Start the Snake Path at dawn in summer; it can close once temperatures rise.
- Carry at least two litres of water per person.
- Use the cable car for the descent if short of time or energy.
- Combine with Ein Bokek for a Dead Sea float.
- Check bus times in advance; only a few run each day and none on Shabbat.
When to visit
October-April is best; in summer climb at sunrise and leave the plateau by mid-morning to avoid extreme heat.
Accessibility
The Snake Path is steep and not suitable for wheelchairs, and the summit has uneven ancient paths and steps. The cable car gives access to the top, but some ruins remain difficult to reach.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the climb up the Snake Path?
The climb takes about 45-60 minutes for most visitors. It is steep, exposed and best done at sunrise.
How far is Masada from Tel Aviv?
It is about 190 km and takes roughly 2.5 hours by bus or car. Early starts are needed for a same-day return.
Can visitors ride a cable car to the top?
Yes, the cable car costs about 50 ILS round trip in addition to park entry. It is helpful in summer or for those who cannot climb.